Tucked away in an exclusive corner of Tangire National Park that’s reached by complimentary transfers from the nearby airstrip, Sanctuary Swala is perfectly positioned for exploring the region’s natural splendour. Grassy plains open onto vast swamps looked over by those iconic baobab trees – trunked colossi with tiny-but-verdant canopies. It’s all explored on included, twice-daily game drives, with expert guides bringing you to everything from leopards, lion and cheetah to kudu, zebra and oryx. You might also want to book onto a night game drive – ideal for spotting the elusive leopard and round-eyed bushbaby – or a walking safari – the chance to get up close to the region’s wildlife.
Whichever you choose, expect your excursions to be characterised by the likes of included bush breakfasts and cool sundowners, taken as dusk sweeps across the African savannah. Meals back at camp are equally considered, served on a stilted deck under an ancient baobab tree. Start the day with a full English or Continental breakfast, while the highlights of the varied lunches include made-to-order pizzas, fresh from the pizza oven. In turn, the dinners are especially good, spanning three, plated courses and ending with a sumptuous dessert menu; the ‘Chocolate Kilimanjaro’ is especially good. Your all-inclusive dining also comes with a full spread of complimentary drinks, best enjoyed around the campfire as you swap stories of the day’s safaris.
And, at the end of it all, you’ll return to your luxury tented accommodation. The camp comprises just 12 canvas pavilions, shaded by tall acacia trees. Each is furnished in contemporary African chic, characterised by campaign chairs, plush sofas and both indoor and outdoor showers. They also all feature views of the camp’s waterhole from their private verandah – an overlook shared by the lodge’s infinity pool. Sip on complimentary cocktails as bull elephants and lions enjoy their own drink.
